Clypeus - 1971 - Vol 8 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: 3
Volume: VIII
Date: May-June 1971
Subtitle: NUOVE FRONTIERE DELLA SCIENZA (New Frontiers of Science)

This issue of Clypeus, a bi-monthly Italian magazine founded in 1964, focuses on unconventional scientific topics, literature, and art, particularly in the realms of space, history, and archaeology. It is distributed to scholars, libraries, and cultural entities worldwide.

Main Article: The Barra da Tijuca Case

The central article, "UNA SCONCERTANTE CONSTATAZIONE RELATIVA AL FAMOSO CASO DELLA BARRA DA TIJUCA" (A Startling Observation Relative to the Famous Barra da Tijuca Case) by Renato Vesco, critically examines the well-known UFO incident that occurred on May 8, 1952, near Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The case gained notoriety due to five photographs taken by two photo-reporters from the local magazine "O Cruzeiro." The article notes that the authenticity of these photographs was immediately challenged, particularly by the French press.

Vesco initially defended the validity of the photographic evidence, finding a notable concordance between the Brazilian sighting and other UFO appearances. However, he recounts how American astronomer Professor Donald H. Menzel contested the photographs, labeling them as a "hoax" or "paste-up." Menzel's primary argument centered on apparent inconsistencies in the lighting of the UFO and the surrounding foliage, suggesting the images were manipulated.

The article details Menzel's reasoning, including the analysis of shadows cast by palm fronds and the alleged "confused foliage" appearing falsely illuminated from the right. The Condon Commission also reportedly accepted Menzel's conclusions, dismissing the case.

Vesco, while acknowledging the potential for subtle suggestion in Menzel's arguments, presents his own observations. He explains how dense vegetation can produce contrasting shadows and that distinguishing these can be challenging. He references his own previous works, including his book "I velivoli del mistero" (The Mystery Aircraft), where he discussed the Barra da Tijuca case and other UFO sightings.

He then introduces a personal experiment involving a wooden model of the Brazilian UFO. Vesco found that the model, when made from insufficiently seasoned wood, warped and developed an elliptical shape when viewed from above and a longitudinal arc when viewed from the front. This warping, he suggests, closely mimicked the "tegoliforme" (tile-like) appearance of the first photograph in the Barra da Tijuca series, and the angle of the warping matched the observed angle.

This led Vesco to hypothesize that the photographs might have been a sophisticated hoax using a wooden model, which had naturally warped. He argues that this explanation could account for the lack of visible windows, the absence of exhaust emissions, the silence, the "tegoliforme" aspect, and the "negative incidence" observed in the second photograph, all without resorting to advanced aeronautical technology. He posits that the model's imperfect roundness might have been intentionally masked, coincidentally resembling the dynamic behavior of real flying saucers.

Despite this analysis, Vesco emphasizes that the UFO phenomenon itself is too serious to be dismissed entirely. However, he concludes that the Barra da Tijuca case, due to its questionable credibility and the strong evidence of a potential hoax, should be removed from UFO documentation.

Related Cases and Notes

The article references several other UFO sightings that share characteristics with the Barra da Tijuca case or its alleged photographic techniques:

• 1952, Ljungbyhed, Sweden: Described as two inverted plates, one on top of the other, with a dark grey-silver color.
• Summer 1959, Turner, Maine, USA: Similar to two plates joined by a dark glass-like line, with rotating blue lights.
• July 11, 1965, Motoshinos, Portugal: Described as a large balloon-like object, similar to two huge plates placed one on top of the other.
• September 3, 1965, Kensington, Massachusetts, USA: A bright, round, silent object that moved like a leaf falling from a tree, immersing itself in a cloud formation.

The author also mentions a case from the spring of 1950, observed near an observatory in Southern Italy, where a witness described an object resembling an "inclined parachute" or a "discoid object" with no visible propulsion, estimated to be very small (90-150 cm diameter). The Condon Commission reportedly dismissed this case by explaining it as a deflated balloon or a piece of carbon paper.

The article includes extensive footnotes, citing various sources and previous publications by the author and others, including works by Donald H. Menzel, Lyle G. Boyd, Olavo T. Fontes, and J.G. Fuller.

Editorial Information and Submissions

Page 2 provides details about the magazine's editorial team, including editors and collaborators. It states that Clypeus covers avant-garde scientific topics, literature, and art, and that contributions are welcome. The magazine is founded in 1964 and is a bi-monthly publication. Subscription information and contact details for the responsible director, Gianni V. Settimo, are provided.

Page 3 announces the "COPPA CLYPEUS 1971" (Clypeus Cup 1971), an invitation for readers to submit essays on unexplained phenomena. The best submission will win the "Clypeus Cup," along with medals and books. Detailed submission guidelines are provided, including requirements for typing, length (3-8 pages, or up to 200 pages for book-length works), and the submission address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO evidence, particularly photographic documentation. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of rigorous scientific scrutiny, willing to debunk seemingly sensational cases if evidence of fabrication or misinterpretation is found, as exemplified by the detailed examination of the Barra da Tijuca incident. While not dismissing the UFO phenomenon entirely, Clypeus prioritizes evidence-based conclusions and encourages reader participation in evaluating such phenomena. The magazine also showcases a broad interest in "new frontiers of science," encompassing unconventional topics beyond just UFOs, as indicated by its subtitle and the mention of various collaborators and sections.

This issue of "Clypeus" (Issue 90, June 1970) features a prominent cover story titled "E VENNE A TORINO" (And He Came to Torino), curated by Celto Bardo. The issue delves into the work of Remo Boscolo, a young collaborator and friend of the magazine, who claims to have deciphered the prophecies of Nostradamus. The magazine highlights the announcement of Boscolo's research in the Milanese weekly "Gioia" by Renzo Rossotti. The articles explore Boscolo's interpretations of Nostradamus' quatrains, offering insights into future events and historical occurrences.

The Secret of Nostradamus and Remo Boscolo's Research

The main article details how Remo Boscolo claims to have uncovered the secret to interpreting Nostradamus' prophecies. Boscolo explains that he found continuous references to historical events, recognizing quatrains related to the French Revolution, Napoleon, World Wars I and II, the atomic bomb, and the moon landing. This allowed him to piece together a 'fantastic mosaic.' While Boscolo does not fully reveal his method, he mentions that two letters from Nostradamus to King Henry II and his son Cesare, along with a lapide in Torino, were of great assistance. The lapide, found near the former Villa Vittoria (Cascina Morozzo), bore an inscription in French: "Nostradamus lodges here, where is paradise, hell, purgatory. I am called La Vittoria, whoever honors me will have glory, whoever despises me will have complete ruin." Boscolo suggests this was dictated by Nostradamus himself. The area around Villa Vittoria was known as "Paradiso," "Inferno," and "Purgatorio."

Boscolo also addresses the idea that the key to Nostradamus' prophecies was meant to be discovered in 1970 by a specially chosen individual. He modestly deflects this, recalling his past accurate predictions of the attack on the Pope in Manila, the death of De Gaulle, earthquakes in Italy, and events in Tuscany. He notes that Nostradamus placed the moon landing in 1970, while it occurred in 1969, suggesting a slight discrepancy is possible.

Future Predictions

The issue presents several future predictions derived from Nostradamus' prophecies through Boscolo's interpretation:

• Earthquakes: Italy will experience more earthquakes, particularly on the Adriatic coast, and in Campania and the Naples area.
• Social Upheavals: Perturbing social events are foreseen.
• European Royal Family: A brief resurgence of an ancient European noble family is predicted, thanks to a young descendant.
• Naples: The prophecy "Campneapolis nemans" is interpreted as a dire omen for Naples.
• Vesuvius: A resurgence of Mount Vesuvius is not ruled out.
• California: The land will rise in a place called "Hicmat," identified as California, and a new river will emerge in Aretusa.
• Economic Crisis: A severe economic crisis is imminent, potentially leading to a 'furious storm.'
• Italian Politics: A politician from Piedmont will emerge in Italy.
• Middle East Conflict: An "international conduit" will be established by the end of the year, possibly involving the UN, in the Arab-Israeli conflict. A doctor named George Abash is implicated in serious subversions.
• Jordan and Egypt: Jordan will regret its alliance with Egypt.
• End of Ismaelita: Around the spring of 1972, the end of the Ismaelita (identified as Hussein) is predicted.
• Non-European Monarch: A prestigious non-European monarch will die tragically in the latter half of the next year.
• Basque Uprising: The Basques will revolt, leading to significant unrest in Spain and signaling the end of the Franco regime. A naval conflict is also suggested.
• 1973-1974: The year 1973 will prepare for worse in 1974.
• Moon: The moon is predicted to turn "red."
• Nuclear War: Boscolo is hesitant to predict nuclear war but acknowledges difficult times ahead.
• Moscow-Beijing Relations: A rapprochement between Moscow and Beijing is foreseen.
• "Flying Cups": Luminous "flying cups" will appear, particularly in American skies, coinciding with important events at the White House.
• Extraterrestrial Encounters: Figures referred to as 'Lords of Saturn' and 'Lords of Venus' are mentioned, raising the possibility of encounters with extraterrestrials.

Other Articles and Sections

• "LA PRESENZA DEL TUTTO" by Remo Fedi: This article discusses the philosophical concept of the eternal presence of everything in the cosmos, challenging the linear perception of time and suggesting that past and future are accidents of the present. It posits that the light from distant worlds reveals a presence that, from a human perspective, might seem illusory.

• "Cornucopia" by Luciana Monticone: This section presents several brief news items:
• Temple of Ahura Mazda: Ruins of an ancient Zoroastrian fire temple dedicated to Ahura Mazda are noted in Isfahan, Iran.
• Giant Skeleton: A two-meter-tall skeleton from the Neolithic era was discovered in Krivoi Rog, Ukraine, with gold earrings.
• Pre-Columbian Discovery: Professor Alexander von Wuthenau suggests that a figure on a Mayan stela in Mexico, depicted with earrings and a hat resembling ancient Egyptian boats, indicates that America was discovered by a Mediterranean people a thousand years before Christ.
• Curse of the Pharaohs: A London exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of Tutankhamun's tomb discovery is mentioned, with superstitious Egyptologists fearing the pharaoh's curse, which has already claimed several lives involved in the discovery.
• Treasure for Shares: In Sweden, shares are being sold for 500 crowns, granting rights to a portion of the fabulous Inca treasure, believed to have been located by Stellan Morner.
• Neanderthal Man: Dr. Lieberman claims Neanderthal man could not speak, lacking a pharynx, and could only grunt or make guttural sounds.

• "I PILOTI DEI DISCHI VOLANTI" (Pilots of Flying Saucers) by Jader U. Pereira: This is a report on a study of 333 UFO occupant observations. The first part outlines the study's organization, including its goals and premises, arguing for the existence and study of humanoids based on consistent observations and witness accounts. The second part details the development, including the selection of cases (230 analyzed, 103 discarded) and their classification based on occupant form (human and non-human), use of suits, and physical characteristics.

• Book Reviews and Announcements: Several books and magazines are reviewed or announced, including:
• "L'ALCHIMIA" by Serge Hutin.
• "LA DIVINAZIONE" by Violetta Besesti.
• "CLYPEUS" magazine.
• "CELESTE" magazine.
• "OZN O SFIDARE PENTRU RAŢIUNEA UMARA" by Ion Hobana and Julien Weverbergh.
• "VISITEURS SPATIAUX" magazine.
• "IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI" edited by Corrado Tedeschi.
• "Gods or Spacemen?", "Spacemen in the ancient east", "Spacemen in the ancient west", "Spacemen in Greece an Rome", "Spacemen in ancient Israel", and "Spacemen in History" by Raymond W. Drake.
• "GLI DEI VENUTI DALLE STELLE" by Jean Sendy.

• "RAZZOMODELLISTI" and "UFOscienza": Sections for model rocket enthusiasts and information on the new UFO magazine "UFOscienza."

• "FUMETTI" (Comics): Announcement of the formation of the "Comics Club" in Torino for comic enthusiasts.

• "ATTENZIONE" (Attention): A humorous advertisement seeking a knight for pest extermination (dragons, witches, giants) on feudal lands.

• "IMPERMEABILIZZAZIONE": Advertisement for waterproofing services.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Clypeus" are prophecy interpretation (primarily Nostradamus), ufology, and esoteric or mysterious phenomena. The magazine appears to have a strong interest in the paranormal, the future, and unexplained events, presenting research and theories from various contributors. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, providing a platform for researchers like Remo Boscolo and studies on UFOs. There is a clear focus on presenting information that challenges conventional understanding and explores the unknown, often drawing connections between ancient prophecies and modern events or future possibilities.

This issue of "In Orbita con i Francobolli" (Orbiting with Stamps), dated April 1971, presents a diverse collection of articles spanning ufology, space exploration, archeology, and philately. The magazine adopts a serious tone when discussing unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and delves into scientific and historical discoveries.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Encounters

The most extensive section of the magazine is dedicated to the classification and description of alleged extraterrestrial beings. The analysis begins by noting that the vast majority of observed cases (95.8%) involved beings of human form. A classification system is introduced, categorizing beings based on whether they wore no, semi, or full spacesuits. The classification resulted in 87 cases (63%) without spacesuits, 47 cases (34%) with spacesuits, and 4 cases (3%) with semi-spacesuits.

Detailed descriptions are provided for various types and variants of these beings:

• Type 1: This type encompasses 27 cases and describes occupants with characteristics considered normal for humans, of average to slightly above-average height. Variants include:
• Variant 1 (18 cases): Described as having normal skin color (ranging from light to dark brown), with men having short hair and women having shoulder-length hair. Some had transparent legs. Their clothing resembled dark blue, brown, or grey uniforms or jumpsuits, sometimes bright or khaki, with some wearing hoods and boots. They were generally non-aggressive but one case involved the use of a luminous ray weapon. Communication occurred in the witness's native language in some instances, with one case of telepathic communication. A total of 73 occupants (65 men, 8 women) were observed across Brazil, Argentina, USA, France, England, and New Zealand.
• Variant 2 (5 cases): Taller, ranging from 1.70 to 2.00 meters. They had bald heads or wore clothing that covered their heads, leaving the face exposed. Skin color was normal or yellow, with a normal or slender build. Their one-piece suits were dark or bright. Their attitude could be aggressive, using a tube-like weapon emitting a luminous ray. Observations occurred in Brazil and Argentina, with 10 occupants seen.
• Variant 3 (4 cases): Characterized by white skin, short white hair, and a one-piece suit covered in luminous scales or plates, described as silver or greenish. They appeared friendly, and their weapon was a luminous sphere that caused a feeling of incapacitation. No dialogue was reported. A total of 7 occupants were seen, all in Argentina.

• Type 2: This type includes 27 cases of occupants with normal human characteristics but small stature, resembling children.
• Variant 1 (13 cases): White skin and clothing. Height ranged from 1.00 to 1.20 meters. Facial features could be normal or deformed, with slightly oblique eyes. Skin was normal or white. The body was normal, sometimes with broad shoulders. The suit was light blue, sometimes with a bright stripe. They usually wore a beret or helmet and generally exhibited fleeing behavior, though one case involved a luminous light weapon. 52 occupants were seen across Canada, USA, Brazil, France, England, and Denmark.
• Variant 2 (4 cases): Dark skin color. Height around 1.00 meter. Normal facial features, but no information on hair. The suit was a light, tight-fitting jumpsuit. Seemingly friendly, with no weapons reported. 11 occupants observed in Brazil, Italy, and France.
• Variant 3 (3 cases): Green skin and small stature. One case described an elongated face with a high forehead and dark hair. They wore tight-fitting suits and helmets. Attitude was apparently aggressive, with attempted abduction. About 30 occupants were seen in Canada, USA, and Argentina.

• Type 3: This type refers to 13 cases of occupants with a masculine appearance but long hair.
• Variant 1 (5 cases): Normal height (1.65 to 1.72 meters). Blond, shoulder-length hair. Young faces, sometimes with almond-shaped eyes. Normal or white skin, robust head. Some appeared to lack heels. They wore dark brown jumpsuits and seemed sociable, with no aggression reported. They did not use weapons and spoke only in the witness's language. 9 occupants were seen, with Brazil being the most frequent location.
• Variant 2 (6 cases): Small stature (1.25 to 1.50 meters). Blond or brown shoulder-length hair. Prominent chin in some cases. White skin. Their suits resembled gymnastics attire with a wide belt. They showed indifference, and one case involved a paralyzing weapon. Telepathic abilities were suggested. 18 occupants were seen across Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and England.
• Variant 3 (3 cases): Tall stature (2.00 meters). Blond, shoulder-length hair. Carnal face, white skin, robust body. Arms and hands appeared unusually long in one case. The suit resembled a gymnastics outfit, possibly rubber. Some were barefoot. They showed indifference, and no weapons or conversations were reported. 5 occupants were seen in Brazil and Argentina.

• Type 4: This type includes 10 cases of occupants with wrinkled or rough skin.
• Variant 1 (1 case): Normal height (1.70 meters, one at 1.50). Short blond hair. The smaller creature's hair was slightly longer. Faces lacked expression, with slits for eyes. The nose was narrow and pointed, and the mouth resembled a slit. Skin was wrinkled, as if burned. They wore two-piece outfits (shirt and trousers) in greenish-grey, with a flat cap. Their attitude was observational, with no weapons or dialogue.
• Variant 2 (4 cases): Small stature (0.90 to 1.20 meters). Normal, bald head. Carnal face, almost round eyes, slit mouth, large ears. Wrinkled skin, white or yellowish. Normal, robust body. Tight-fitting suits, sometimes with a backpack. Suits were grey or green, with one case noting a cap. Two cases showed friendly behavior, one case involved hostility and possible attempted abduction. No weapons were used, and dialogue occurred in English in one instance. 5 representatives were seen, all in the USA.
• Variant 3 (5 cases): Characterized by a large head. Height ranged from 0.90 to 1.20 meters. Large, bald head. Prominent chin, sometimes with sparse beard. Large, round eyes, slit mouth. Narrow nose. Wrinkled skin, generally black but sometimes reddish. Long arms and short legs. Two-piece outfits in greenish-grey or blue. Head sometimes covered by a hood or cap. Attitude was one of flight, with no weapons or dialogue. 16 occupants were seen across Canada, USA, France, and Brazil.

French Gendarmerie and UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the French gendarmerie's stance on UFOs. The article "All'erta gendarmi, i dischi volanti" (Gendarmes on Alert, Flying Saucers) reveals that the French gendarmerie takes the issue of flying saucers seriously, contrary to widespread skepticism. The national gendarmerie's official magazine, "Revue d'études et d'informations de la gendarmerie nationale," published a detailed article on the subject, accompanied by a "questionnaire-type for investigators." This questionnaire prompts officers to meticulously record data related to aerial observations, landings of alleged craft, the behavior of animals near landing sites, and the appearance and conduct of any beings observed.

The article notes that while the Condon Report (1968) formally concluded that there was no proof of flying saucers' existence, American pilots who reported unidentified objects faced severe penalties (fines and imprisonment). The French gendarmerie, however, is not convinced by the skepticism and encourages its members to actively cooperate with those studying the phenomenon, citing a "clandestine association of scientists" worldwide conducting research outside military or academic constraints. The magazine questions the need for such precautions if the phenomenon does not exist, suggesting that the gendarmerie's serious approach stems from a conviction that "something real must exist."

Scientific and Archeological News

The issue also features several scientific and archeological reports:

• Lunar and Terrestrial Influence on Earthquakes: Professor Gary Latham of Columbia University suggests that while lunar attraction's influence on terrestrial earthquakes is secondary, it warrants study. He posits that terrestrial attraction has a significant influence on lunar seismic activity, and studying minor seismic phenomena on the Moon could help understand earthquakes better.
• Archeological Discoveries:
• Over a hundred Roman coins from the 3rd century AD were found in Crimea, Soviet Union.
• A fragment of Ulfila's Bible, a precious Gothic manuscript from around 500 AD, was discovered in Spira, Germany.
• A significant treasure of 367 Roman gold coins, dating from 54 BC to 180 AD, was found near Brussels, Belgium.
• Soviet archeologists claim to have discovered a "lost civilization" in northern Afghanistan, dating back 3500 years, characterized by a rectangular fortress. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the timeline of rectangular city planning.
• Space Exploration: The article "IN ORBITA CON I FRANCOBOLLI" (Orbiting with Stamps) discusses advancements in space exploration. It mentions a Russian stamp commemorating the "Lunokhod" lunar vehicle and other Soviet space achievements, as well as Mongolian stamps honoring "Lunokhod" and "Apollo 14." The growing interest in space collectibles is noted, with a mention of expensive gold-stamped items from Persian Gulf countries. The market for "Apollo" mission covers and cancellations is also reported as strong in the USA.
• Scientific Findings:
• A new X-ray star was discovered by the Uhuru satellite, launched from the San Marco platform, representing a significant step for astronomy.
• Physicists at the University of California announced the discovery of a minuscule subatomic particle, the "anti-omega-barione negativo," with an extremely short lifespan.
• Dr. Lieberman reported that Neanderthal humans likely lacked a pharynx, limiting their vocalizations to guttural sounds, similar to infants and chimpanzees, making complex language impossible.

Philately and Advertisements

The magazine includes sections on stamp collecting, with mentions of the "Central Stamp Exchange League" and advertisements for stamp dealers and hobbyist publications like "The Famous Freeboot Flyer" and "The Belgian Hobby Advertiser." The "In Orbita con i Francobolli" column itself focuses on space-themed stamps.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the serious investigation of unexplained phenomena (particularly UFOs), the progress and excitement surrounding space exploration, and the uncovering of historical and scientific knowledge. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the serious study of UFOs and other mysteries, while also reporting on established scientific and archeological findings. There is a clear emphasis on presenting information from official sources, such as the French gendarmerie, and scientific institutions, alongside reports of eyewitness accounts.

This issue of the magazine, dated Thursday, January 28, 1971, published by CORRIERE DELLA SERA, features a prominent article titled "Gli dei con un piede nella Cina" (The Gods with One Foot in China), exploring the unconventional theories of German orientalist and sinologist Hubert Daunicht.

Daunicht's Theory: Indo-European Origins in China

The central theme of the magazine is Hubert Daunicht's radical hypothesis that the origins of Indo-European peoples and their mythology, including Greek myths, can be traced back to the Sinkiang region of China. Daunicht, a 38-year-old scholar from the University of Bonn, has dedicated nearly a decade to this research, resulting in a two-and-a-half-thousand-page, four-volume work.

Daunicht posits that the Greek pantheon, including figures like Zeus and Kronos, were originally powerful human leaders from the Indo-European civilization that flourished in Sinkiang. He identifies Emperor Huang-ti with Kronos and his son Chuan-su with Zeus. Furthermore, he suggests that the figure of Yü, known for controlling the Yellow River, is identical to the Greek hero Herakles (Hercules), citing similarities in their mythical feats, such as slaying a multi-headed monster (the Hydra) and dealing with a wild boar.

His research also draws parallels between the Greek epic the Odyssey and ancient Chinese texts like the Shan Hai Ching (Classic of Mountains and Seas). Daunicht believes that the journey of Odysseus is a poetic transposition of a quest for the origins of the Hellenic world, potentially undertaken by figures like Aristea of Proconnesus, who may have traveled to Asia.

Daunicht's theory suggests that these Indo-European peoples migrated westward from Central Asia, influencing the cultures of the Mediterranean and beyond. He claims that the Shan Hai Ching contains descriptions of one-eyed beings similar to the Cyclops and that ancient myths about the Lotophagi (Lotus-Eaters) have Asian counterparts.

Academic Reception and Future Research

Daunicht's theories have reportedly met with resistance from the academic establishment, with initial reactions described as guarded and provisionally negative, such as that of Grecian scholar Wolfgang Schadewaldt. However, Daunicht is reportedly planning an expedition to Sinkiang to gather further evidence, a venture that faces significant political hurdles due to China's strategic importance and its government's potential lack of cooperation with Western scientists.

The article speculates that if Daunicht's findings are validated, they could lead to a crisis in the fields of mythology, anthropology, and the study of religious origins, potentially offering new arguments for Marxist scholars critical of spiritualistic or idealistic interpretations of human history.

UFO Sightings and Alleged Conspiracy

Beyond the theoretical discussions, the magazine also reports on recent UFO sightings. Three unidentified flying object sightings were reported in South Australia in the week prior to the publication date:

• A Goolwa resident reported seeing a circular, revolving UFO that changed color from red to yellow to white.
• A round, white, fast-moving object was reported from Elizabeth Grove.
• An oval-shaped orange object hovering was seen by a resident in Brighton.

Mr. Colin Norris, public relations officer for the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, attributes the increase in UFO sightings to the Apollo-14 mission to the moon. He further suggests a conspiracy involving space agencies and governments to withhold information about UFOs from the public. Norris claims that astronauts' comments about UFOs are censored, and that television viewers only see a "censored version" of their reports, citing evidence from a ham radio operator in the United States.

Religious and Cosmic Phenomena

The issue also includes a section titled "FATTI MERAVIGLIOSI ACCOMPAGNARONO LA VITA DI GESU'" (Marvelous Facts Accompanied the Life of Jesus), which explores extraordinary events associated with the life of Jesus Christ. This section delves into descriptions of divine manifestations, cosmic phenomena during the Transfiguration, Crucifixion, and Resurrection, and the divine origin of Christ.

It discusses the luminosity and imponderability of Jesus during his infancy, grand cosmic phenomena during the Transfiguration, Crucifixion, and Resurrection, and the concept of Christ as both a nature god and a personal God. The text references apocryphal scriptures and biblical accounts, detailing events such as the darkness during the Crucifixion, the tearing of the temple veil, earthquakes, and the phenomenon of the moon obscuring the sun (a lunar eclipse). It also touches upon the unusual descriptions of the comet that announced Jesus' birth and the "Pistis Sophia" text, which links Jesus' advent with celestial disturbances.

Further sections explore the miraculous events surrounding Jesus' birth, including the stillness of nature, the unusual light emanating from the infant Jesus, and his ability to perform extraordinary feats even as a baby. The text also mentions the unusual nature of the star that heralded his birth and the connection between celestial events and Jesus' life.

Artistic and Historical Connections

The magazine includes illustrations of a historical bell from Rovereto depicting a radiant sun with Christ's face, and Etruscan cinerary urns featuring winged solar discs with human faces, suggesting a historical artistic connection to solar imagery and divine figures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reinterpretation of ancient myths and religious origins through an unconventional, materialistic lens, the exploration of UFO phenomena and potential government cover-ups, and the examination of miraculous events in religious history. The editorial stance appears to favor the presentation of controversial theories and reports, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider alternative explanations for historical and contemporary phenomena. The inclusion of Daunicht's radical theories and the discussion of UFO conspiracies suggest an interest in challenging orthodoxies and exploring the fringes of academic and popular belief.

LA NAZIONE, dated October 5, 1970, issue number 115, is an Italian newspaper featuring articles on literary awards, bibliographical notes, and biographical entries, with a notable focus on ufology and related publications.

Literary Award Ceremony

The main article details the ceremony for the "San Giovanni" literary prize, which was awarded to Anna Maria Innocenti Perriccioli of Florence for her dramatic narrative set in a Tuscan manufactory during the late 19th century. The award ceremony took place at the Società Leonardo da Vinci, with the winning story read by Anna Maria Francini. Other prize recipients included Solas Boncompagni and Franco Arturo Catania. Several individuals were also mentioned for their contributions or received medals of friendship. The jury, presided over by Professor Giovanni De Lorenzo, reviewed seventy-six anonymous submissions before selecting the winners.

Bibliographical Notes

A significant portion of the first page is dedicated to "NOTE BIBLIOGRAFICHE" (Bibliographical Notes), listing numerous references to apocryphal gospels, biblical texts, classical works (Plato), and writings by early Christian figures like Ignatius of Antioch and Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite. These references are cited with specific editions and page numbers, suggesting a scholarly or theological context for some of the magazine's content.

Biographical Entries and Ufology

The second page features a biographical entry for Solas Boncompagni, born in San Sepolcro (Arezzo) in 1922. It highlights his background in music, including compositions and awards in light music, and his later involvement in literature. The entry notes his collaborations with various publications and mentions his work being cited in books by Peter Kolosimo ("Mon è terrestre") and W. Raymond Drake ("Spacemen in the Ancient East"). Boncompagni is also described as a contributor to "Clypeus," an avant-garde magazine directed by Gianni Settimo, and has received awards for his contributions to avant-garde literature.

The third page introduces Peter Kolosimo's book "CITTADINI DELLE TENEBRE" (Citizens of Darkness), describing its themes of past voices, future images, invisible powers, unknown dimensions, and scientific explanations for startling phenomena. It also mentions another upcoming book, "I FIGLI DEL SOLE" by Prof. Marcel F. Homet.

The fourth page shows the masthead of "CLYPEUS - RIVISTA DI ESOBIOLOGIA" (CLYPEUS - Magazine of Exobiology), directed by Gianni V. Settimo, with contact information for Torino, Italy. It also displays an address for "THE JOURNAL OF BORDERLAND RESEARCH" in California, USA, and "INTERNATIONAL FLYING SAUCER NEWS," also published by Gianni Settimo. A section for "STAMPE NON PIEGARE" (Prints Do Not Fold) and an advertisement for "LIBRERIA CARTOLERIA L. A. MURATORI" are present. Finally, "L'ECO DELLA STAMPA," an office for newspaper and magazine clippings founded in 1901, is mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover a range of topics, from literary awards and classical/religious texts to contemporary authors and the burgeoning field of ufology. The inclusion of detailed bibliographical notes and biographical entries suggests an interest in documenting cultural and intellectual contributions. The prominent features on Peter Kolosimo, "Clypeus," and "International Flying Saucer News" indicate a strong leaning towards ufology and related speculative or scientific inquiries into unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of promoting literary achievements while also engaging with and reporting on subjects of scientific and speculative interest, particularly those concerning extraterrestrial or unexplained phenomena.